Nottinghamshire Second World War veterans to be honoured at medal ceremony

Lucy Grosvenor

War veterans from across the county will be honoured during a special ceremony at Nottingham’s Council House.

Nottingham City Council was approached by the Russian Embassy with a request to present Ushakov Medals to former British sailors involved with the Arctic Convoys between 1941 and 1945.

Lord Mayor of Nottingham, Councillor Jackie Morris said: “Nottinghamshire sailors played a major role in transporting critical supplies to Russia during the Second World War, showing true heroism in their long and perilous convoys. They were constantly under attack and faced appalling Arctic weather conditions.

“This bravery will always be remembered and respected. We know their great sacrifice was made for our freedom and we welcome the opportunity to honour these remarkable men for everything that they did to aid the war effort.”

A decree of the President of Russia, dated 10 March, 2014, announced that the honour should be given to a number of British veterans for their efforts during the Arctic Convoys, where the Navy joined colleagues from Canada and the United States to provide safe passage for merchant ships transporting essential supplies to the Soviet Union.

More than 3,300 Ushakov Medals have been issued and the Embassy of the Russian Federation in London has embarked on a campaign to present them to British veterans.

Ushakov Medals were introduced in 1944 and named in honour of Russian admiral Fyodor Ushakov, an illustrious 18th century naval commander. They are awarded to sailors and soldiers who have displayed courage and bravery in the defence of the Soviet Union.

The Nottinghamshire event will take place at the Council House on Tuesday, November 24 at 2pm with representatives from the Russian Embassy.

Councillor Sybil Fielding, Chairman of Nottinghamshire County Council, added: “In the past, the heroism of the men and women of our Merchant Navy has often been overlooked, so it is an absolute privilege to take part in this event which gives some long overdue recognition of their outstanding bravery.

“History tells us that, without the contribution of the Arctic Convoys, the war against Hitler may well have been lost. We all owe these veterans a huge debt of gratitude.”